Common uses

This medicine is an immunosuppressive agent used to prevent rejection after a kidney transplant. It may also be used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Before using

Warning: long-term use of this medicine increases the risk of developing neoplasias (cancerous or noncancerous growths). Azathioprine can also cause blood disorders (e.g., leukopenia). Immediately notify your doctor if you develop unusual growths, easy bruising or bleeding, or signs of infection such as persistent sore throat or fever. Additional monitoring of your dose or condition may be needed if you are taking allopurinol, anticoagulants, or medicines for high blood pressure or heart conditions (ace inhibitors). Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking this medicine.

Directions

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This medicine may be taken with food if it upsets your stomach.

Store this medicine at room temperature, away from heat and light. If you miss a dose of this medicine, and you are taking 1 dose daily, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. If you miss a dose of this medicine, and you are taking more than 1 dose daily, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, take both doses together then go back to your regular dosing schedule.

Cautions

Keep all doctor and laboratory appointments while you are taking this medicine. Tell your doctor and dentist that you are taking this medicine before having any treatments or surgery. Check with your doctor before having any immunizations (vaccinations) while your are using this medicine. This medicine may lower your resistance to infection. Prevent infection by avoiding contact with people with infection. Do not touch your eyes or the inside of your nose unless you have thoroughly washed your hands first.

This medicine may reduce the number of blood cells needed for clotting. To prevent bleeding, avoid situations where bruising or injury may occur.

For women: this medicine has been shown to cause harm to the human fetus. If you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. This medicine is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine.

Possible side effects

Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include nausea or stomach upset. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you experience vomiting, diarrhea, rash, fever, muscle aches, sore throat, mouth sores, unusual bleeding or bruising, pale stools, or darkened urine. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

If you take too much

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Additional information

Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.